Senate Republicans shake up roster on Commerce panel

Senate Republicans added five new members to its roster on the influential Commerce Committee. Sens. Dan Coats (R-IN), Tim Scott (R-SC), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Deb Fischer (R-NB) and Ron Johnson (R-WI) have joined the Commerce Committee for the 113th Congress. The committee has jurisdiction over matters dealing with communications, technology research and development and transportation, among other issues. Sens. Johnny Isakson (R-GA), John Boozman (R-AR) and Pat Toomey (R-PA) will not return to the Commerce Committee.

In addition, Sen Cruz will join his freshman colleague Sen. Jeff Flake (R-AZ) on the Senate Judiciary Committee after Sen. Jon Kyl (R-AZ) retired at the end of the session. Sen. Tom Coburn (R-OK) will not be returning to the panel.